Stritch & Minnelli to Join Feinstein in Celebrating Short

The New York Times reports that Tony Award-winning legends Elaine Stritch and Liza Minnelli will join Michael Feinstein in saluting the debonair memory of Bobby Short in Feinstein's new cabaret. 

"Celebrating Bobby Short" runs at Feinstein's at the Regency (540 Park Ave. on 61st St.) from June 5th through 16th.  Stritch (Company, Sail Away, Elaine Stritch at Liberty) will be Feinstein's leadoff guest, while Minnelli (Chicago, Victor/Victoria, Cabaret film) will join him on June 12th.  The band will be led by musical director John Oddo.

For almost four decades, Short was the well-loved, elegant staple of the Cafe Carlyle, where he delighted patrons with his vocal and piano performances of songs by such composers/lyricists as Gershwins, Rodgers and Hart, Jerome Kern, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington, and, of course, Cole Porter. 

"It is an exciting challenge to create a show that will properly pay tribute to Bobby because his dazzling career simply cannot possibly be encapsulated in a single program," says Feinstein. "My hope is to capture the essence, glamour and spirit of his music as well as present a cross section of his vast repertoire coupled with special guests who will share their own personal reflections of Bobby. Bobby's favorite songwriter was Cole Porter, so expect a generous helping of him in addition to other signature songs."

Michael Feinstein, one of the premiere interpreters of American popular song, rose to fame with his 1988 one man Broadway show, "Isn't It Romantic." He enjoys an active performance calendar, including major concert halls, symphony orchestras, intimate jazz clubs and college campuses. "More than a mere performer, he is nationally recognized for his commitment to the American popular song, both celebrating its art and preserving its legacy for the next generation," state press notes.

Visit www.feinsteinsattheregency.com for more information.

Photo of Liza Minnelli by Walter McBride/Retna Ltd.; photo of Elaine Stritch by Ben Strothmann; third photo of Bobby Short